Stage 2 Rental Law Reforms in Queensland: What You Need to Know
The Queensland rental landscape is evolving, with legislative updates set to reshape the way property managers and landlords handle tenancy applications, property access, data management, and tenant modification requests. The next phase of the Stage 2 Rental Law Reforms will take effect on 1 May 2025, meaning proactive preparation is essential to ensure compliance and maintain strong relationships with tenants and clients.
At V & Co. Realty, we are committed to staying ahead of these changes to provide the best possible service. Our team is actively updating our knowledge to ensure we meet the new requirements and continue to offer seamless property management.
KEY CHANGES COMING IN MAY 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the major legislative updates coming into effect:
Standardised Tenancy Applications | Property managers will be required to use a prescribed form for all tenancy applications.
Restricted Information Requests | Only specific information can be requested from prospective tenants, and some types of information will be prohibited from collection.
Identity Verification Requirements | New guidelines will dictate how property managers verify a tenant’s identity.
Disclosure of Financial Benefits | Property managers must disclose any financial benefits received from third-party rent payment methods.
Extended Entry Notice Periods | The minimum notice period for property entry will be extended from 24 hours to 48 hours.
Limits on Entry Frequency | Once a Form 12 Notice to Leave or Form 13 Notice of Intention to Leave is issued, property entry will be limited to two times per seven-day period.
New Tenant Modification Requests | A formal process will be introduced for tenants to request fixtures or structural changes to rental properties.
Data Management Updates | New rules will govern the collection, storage, and destruction of tenants’ personal information.
BACKGROUND | STAGE 2 RENTAL LAW REFORMS TIMELINE
The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024 was passed in May 2024, with changes rolling out in two stages:
Changes Implemented on 30 September 2024:
· At least one fee-free rent payment method must be offered to tenants, with full disclosure of any associated costs.
· Lessors must provide tenants with evidence to support a bond claim or dispute resolution request within 14 days.
· The maximum bond limit thresholds have been removed, meaning all rental properties, regardless of rent price, will have a maximum bond of four weeks' rent.
· Tenants may be eligible for a bond refund if a tenancy is renewed and excess bond has been held.
· Billing deadlines for service charges and water consumption charges – These must be provided to tenants within four weeks of receipt, or the tenant is not required to pay.
· If water consumption charges relate to a partial billing period, tenants will not be required to pay unless calculated in accordance with the RTRA Act.
· Lease break costs must now be calculated using a statutory formula.
As trusted real estate professionals, we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for landlords and tenants alike. Our team is actively updating our processes, attending industry training, and keeping up with the latest legal requirements. If you have any questions about how these changes may impact your property, visit the RTA website or reach out to V & Co. Realty today - we're here to help!